When NFL insider Ian Rapoport shared his update on Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden's injury, no one knew what to make of it.
Burden got injured in practice last week and left with a groin injury. Rapoport reported that Burden would miss "a little bit of time." That didn't exactly clear anything up about when he would return, but now fans have a much better idea.
CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz reported late Sunday night that Burden is expected to miss a month with the groin injury. Zenitz also shared that the hope is that Burden will be healthy and ready to go for their Week 1 showdown against the Carolina Panthers next month.
Bears might have Luther Burden back for Week 1 against the Panthers
Well, that will shut down Burden's preseason, which isn't the end of the world. It's probably better that way than trying to push him with a lower leg injury.
Most NFL teams don't play their starters that often, so the Bears may not get many looks. Last year, Bears head coach Ben Johnson played his starters throughout the preseason to get them used to the offense, but that might change this year since they have a better feel for his scheme.
For now, the Bears still have plenty of weapons for Caleb Williams to throw to during training camp and the preseason. Watch for Kalif Raymond, Jahdae Walker, and Zavion Thomas to step up in Burden's place.
This is the time for Rome Odunze to reestablish himself as the number one guy in the passing game. Tight end Colston Loveland could be in the conversation as the No. 1 target, depending on how Williams approaches the passing attack in 2026.
It's a shame that fans have to wait another month to watch the progress that Burden has made. Most fans have only had a short time at training camp and clips on social media to see the potential Burden has this season.
Last year, he went for 652 yards and two touchdowns, but it felt like a bit of a waste of a season for him. Johnson used Burden more as a screen player until late in the season, and then Bears fans saw the young receiver get sent deep.
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Now it's all about Burden trying to get 100% healthy before the regular season begins, and the Bears hope that happens. He will be a massive part of this offense to roll in 2026.
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